Wednesday, January 4, 2017

Red Cross Issues Winter Weather Driving Safety Tips

By Nigel Holderby

Driving in a winter storm presents its own unique challenges. The Red Cross has
steps people can follow to get their vehicle ready for winter as well as what
they should do if they are caught in a winter storm.

“Check your vehicle
and stock it with some emergency supplies,” said Mike Masto, Red Cross Regional
Disaster Officer, “The best thing you can do is stay off the roads during a
winter storm.”

GET
YOUR VEHICLE READY FOR WINTER: Plan ahead. Have a mechanic check your tires,
battery, brakes and antifreeze levels. Make sure your vehicle is ready for
winter with a window scraper, shovel, kitty litter or sand in case you get
stuck, extra clothes and a Disaster Supplies Kit
in your trunk. Pack high-protein snacks, water, first aid kit, flashlight,
small battery-operated radio, an emergency contact card with names and phone
numbers, extra prescription medications, blankets and important documents or
information you may need.

DRIVING IN WINTER
While the Red Cross encourages you to stay off the road if possible, if you
have to drive in snow or freezing rain, follow these tips about how to drive
safely during a winter storm and what to do if you become stuck in your
vehicle:

Fill the vehicle’s gas tank and
clean the lights and windows to help you see.

Pay attention to the weather
forecast. Before you leave, let someone know where you are going, the
route you plan to take, and when you expect to get there. If your car gets
stuck, help can be sent along your predetermined route.

If you have to drive, make sure
everyone has their seat belts on and give your full attention to the road.
Avoid distractions such as cell phones.

Tie a brightly colored cloth
(preferably red) to the antenna for rescuers to see.

Don’t run your engine and heater
constantly to help avoid running out of gas. Don’t use things like lights
or the radio without the engine running so the battery doesn’t conk out.

If you can, move your vehicle off
the roadway. Stay with it – don’t abandon it. If you have to get out of
your vehicle, use the side away from traffic.

Start the car and use the heater
for about 10 minutes every hour. Keep the exhaust pipe clear so fumes
won't back up in the car.

Leave the overhead light on when
the engine is running to help rescuers see the vehicle.

Keep one window slightly open -
away from the blowing wind - to let in air.

WEATHER
ALERTS AND FIRST AID TIPS People can download the Red Cross Emergency App for
instant access to winter storm tips and weather alerts for their area and where
loved-ones live. Expert medical guidance and a hospital locator are included in
the First Aid App in case travelers encounter any mishaps. Both apps are
available to download for free in app stores or at redcross.org/apps.

For more information about winter driving in Wyoming and
to sign up for real-time updates about road conditions in your area, visit http://www.wyoroad.info/